Title
Diseases of Women: A Manual for Students and Practitioners (1909)
Author
Charles Gardner Child, Jr., M.D. (Yale)
Image
Description
Published in 1909 by Lea Brothers & Co. as part of the Medical Epitome Series, this student manual presents a compact but highly detailed guide to gynecologic conditions and their treatments. Topics range from pelvic tumors and uterine displacements to infectious and malignant disease of the reproductive tract. The volume is notable for its clean anatomical illustrations and early surgical guidance in the management of conditions like deciduoma malignum.
Condition
Red cloth boards with silver gilt. Spine crown frayed, mild cover fading. Owner’s inscription on front flyleaf dated December 1, 1916: “J. F. Laval, 5684 Ingleside Ave., Chicago, Ill.”
Gallery
Historical context
This manual was issued during a turning point in gynecology: between antiseptic revolution and the pre-antibiotic era. Its focus on surgical treatment for malignancies and uterine conditions reflects a time when most diagnoses were made manually or via curettage, and success often depended on the surgeon’s speed and skill.
The Medical Epitome Series was marketed to young practitioners needing concise, affordable clinical references—a forerunner to today’s pocket guides.
Curious Facts, Ephemera, and Trivia
Deciduoma malignum is described as “developing shortly after delivery, abortion, or hydatid mole,” highlighting the early understanding of gestational trophoblastic disease.
One method for uterine fixation involves suturing the fundus to the anterior vaginal wall—a vivid example of early gynecologic surgery.
Belonged to Dr. J. F. Laval (also owner of your other two volumes), this time while living in Chicago in 1916.
Excerpt
“Success can only be obtained by complete removal of the uterus and appendages before metastases have developed. The mortality is over 50 percent.” — Deciduoma Malignum, p. 83
Why it is in the Cabinet
This volume captures the surgical mindset of gynecology in 1909—before Pap smears, before antibiotics, and before hormonal therapy. Its illustrations, direct language, and linkage to Dr. Laval’s other works make it a significant piece of your Medical Epitome Series subset.
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